Trading can be a daunting experience for a new user, and that’s a fact. It can also be a troubling conundrum for users that have been playing for a long time as well. I get a lot of questions in game and on twitter, and a lot of it has to do with accepting or declining trades. Its natural, and I actually dont mind providing my opinion. However, its just that, an opinion. Here is what I consider each time a trade is proposed.

Need/Position

Whether its a pitcher who is starting that day, a card to complete a set, or a favorite player you like, need is one of the biggest things to consider when accepting a trade. If I need a card, I will likely overpay, or wait for an offer that feels like I am underpaying.

Set Value

Lets face it, some sets are worth more than others. Opening Day super rares are not going to be worth as much as the brand new set that just came out yesterday. I would go as far as saying that the newer the card set, the more valuable it is, with a few exceptions like Fired Up or Future is Now. Obviously, sigs are the most valuable cards in the game, so if you get offered one, I would seriously consider taking the offer if they are trying to get a non-sig.

Defined Card Count (Sold Out) or Perceived Card Count (Still in Packs)

One of the craziest things happened in the game this last weekend, and for the most part it was unexpected. The Heritage series 2 Chase Utley went sold out with 18 copies. I dont care how new you are, its clear that this card is likely the rarest pack pulled insert of the year so far. Because it also contributed to a set, it was that much more important. Card count is one of the most important stats in the game, and it can easily dictate whether or not a trade should be made. If your card has 400 copies (per the back number in parentheses), and they are offering a card with a 1000 copies, its likely not going to be in your favor. Of course, as mentioned above, set plays into it. Also remember, card counts will increase until the card goes sold out, so you might need to factor that in.

Trade Bait

Even though I may not need a card or want a card, it still may be valuable enough to consider trading for as trade bait. Basically, I want cards that I can eventually trade for others that I want. If the deal is good enough, thats what it takes sometimes.

Things not to consider as much:

Rarity level – I dont like trading with people who trade by rarity levels over card counts and set value. In most cases, just because two inserts are both super rare, does not make them even close to even.

Team affiliation – Most times, cards are valuable because of the gameplay element or rarity, not because of team. Im not giving up good cards because you trade me Yankees, Red Sox, or Twins (my affiliation).

Injuries – Dont ask me to give up my top inserts because the guy is out for the season, the game isnt all about scoring points, which is why I like it so much.